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While residential buy-to-let properties are the more traditional go-to for property investors, commercial property offers a wonderful opportunity for portfolio diversification and consistent earning potential. 2025 has seen the market grow thanks to a stabilising economy, easing inflation and potential further interest rate cuts boosting investor confidence. According to the CBRE UK Monthly Index capital values for UK commercial real estate rose by 0.3%, while rental values rose by 0.4% in March. Total returns were 0.8% during the month, with commercial real estate providing a total return of 2.1% for Q1 2025. What is a commercial property? Essentially, a commercial property is any property that is designed for commercial use and business rather than living in. There are many different types of commercial property, including office space, retail strips and stores, warehouses, factories and medical facilities among others. How does it differ from buying and renting residential property? While commercial property usually has a higher initial payment and investment required, it also tends to have a higher profit margin. This means that putting down a larger investment in the beginning could offer a better return on investment in the long run. Below we explore why this could be the case. Higher income potential The commercial market offers a large variety of properties that can suit your investment needs and offer yields from 5% to 8%, compared to residential yields of 2% to 5% in many UK regions. As an example, if you were to invest in a shopping centre, you would have the opportunity to rent to multiple businesses. And if you bought a multi-story office building, you could rent each floor to a different company, as opposed to a house or flat only providing one monthly rental payment per property. Longer lease terms Generally speaking most businesses lease a property for longer periods of time compared to residential tenants, which typically run on 6 to 12 month agreements, with commercial leases signed between five and ten years at a time, providing landlords a consistent income over that period of time, and reducing the risk of the property being left without a tenant as often. Additionally, many commercial tenants, especially established businesses, franchises, or professional services, value continuity and location stability, making them more likely to renew or extend their leases. Demand in growing sectors Commercial property investors in the UK are benefiting from strong demand in fast-growing and evolving sectors like e-commerce hubs, data centres and flexible office space rentals. As a result of growing e-commerce dependency warehouses, distribution centres, and storage facilities are in high demand across the UK, especially near major transport hubs and urban centres. Flexible office spaces and hybrid working hubs are also in demand, especially in regional cities where businesses are shifting away from large city-centres in favour of more adaptable and cost-effective areas. This trend is opening up new opportunities in suburban and secondary markets, with regional cities like Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds experiencing booms and investors experiencing lower entry costs and higher yields. Stability against market volatility Commercial property is considered a relatively safe bet against market volatility because it tends to offer stable, long-term income that is less directly affected by short-term fluctuations in the stock market or broader economy. Unlike equities or cryptocurrencies, which can be devalued wildly based on investor sentiment or global events, commercial property like office buildings, warehouses and retail spaces are grounded in real assets with tangible value and utility, continuing to generate income even during periods of uncertainty. Thanks to long-term lease agreements, tenants, especially those in resilient sectors like healthcare, logistics, or essential retail, typically remain committed to their locations, ensuring steady rental income for investors. Property values themselves also tend to move more gradually than financial markets, providing stability against daily volatility. Tax benefits Stamp duty land tax applies to both commercial and residential property transactions, but rates for commercial properties are generally lower than those for residential properties, especially at higher transaction values. As of April 2025 if you buy a new non-residential or mixed use leasehold property, stamp duty is payable on both the lease premium or purchase price ‘net present value of the rent payable (based on the value of the total rent over the life of the lease). If the net present value is under £150,000 the stamp duty rate is zero, and over £150,000 is 1%. Tailor my Property The UK’s commercial property market offers investors the opportunity to expand and diversify their rental property portfolios. That said, thorough research and market experience are essential to help identify prime regional locations and opportunities, understand local market dynamics and legislation, and assess potential risks. Tailor my Property offers an experienced network of property, investment and financial professionals who can assist with specific goals and queries across the broader United Kingdom. Get in touch today.

Commercial UK properties offer exciting opportunities for investors

Commercial property offers a wonderful opportunity for portfolio diversification and consistent earning potential.

Following the Bank of England’s base rate cut to 4.25% on 8 May 2025 there has been an uptick of activity in the UK property market, largely due to impacted mortgage rates available to buyers. The average rate for a two-year fixed mortgage stands at 4.89%, according to data from Uswitch, with some sub-4% rates available. Five-year fixed deals currently average 5.14%. With the next base rate decision taking place on Thursday 19 June analysts predict that the base rate could fall to about 4% by the end of 2025, though this depends on the wider economy and global factors that can be hard to predict, including US tariffs and conflict in the middle east. What are interest rates and how do they affect the average consumer? The Bank of England's base rate is what it charges other banks and building societies to borrow money. This influences what they charge their own customers for loans such as mortgages as well as the interest rate they pay on savings. The Bank moves rates up and down in order to stabilise UK inflation, which is the increase in the price of something over time. When inflation is above the target of 2%, the Bank can decide to put rates up. This encourages people to spend less, reducing demand for goods and services and limiting price rises. When inflation is at or close to the target, the Bank may hold rates, or cut them to stimulate spending and economic growth. How do interest rates affect mortgage rates? Just under a third of UK households have a mortgage, according to the government's English Housing Survey, with about 600,000 homeowners of those having a mortgage that "tracks" the Bank of England's rate, meaning that the latest base rate change has an immediate impact on their monthly repayments. The vast majority of customers with mortgages however have fixed-rate deals, and while their monthly payments aren't immediately affected by a rate change, future potential deals are. Mortgage rates are currently much higher than they have been for much of the past decade, meaning many homebuyers and those remortgaging have to pay a lot more than if they had borrowed the same amount a few years ago. Which products are available right now?  As of 14 June 2025 HSBC offers a 4.01% rate for a five-year deal, with the lowest rate being 3.96% for two-year options. Both cases assume a 60% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgage, meaning buyers need to have at least 40% for a deposit. NatWest's five-year deal is currently at 3.95% with a £1,495 fee, and the cheapest two-year fixed deal is 3.92%. In both instances buyers need at least a 40% deposit to qualify for the rates. Barclays currently has a five-year fixed rate at 3.99%, with the lowest rate for two-year mortgage deals at 3.97%. Additionally, the Bank of China is offering non-resident buy-to-let market rates as low as 3.97% for a three-year deal up to £500,000 and 60% LTV. Though these are just some of many products currently available they do offer a glimpse of the opportunities available to investors and buyers both in the UK and based abroad.  Tailor my Property Whether you’re a first time buyer or a seasoned property investor lower rates offer exciting opportunities for the UK property market, particularly with potential further cuts predicted after the next announcement on the 19th. Whether you are planning to expand an already impressive portfolio or explore the market for the first time it’s highly recommended to contact a professional for tailored guidance and advice. Tailor my Property has a network of expert finance and property professionals who can advise you to ensure you move in the right direction for your personal, financial and property goals. Get in touch today to find out more.

UK mortgage rates steady ahead of the next Bank of the England rate decision

With the next base rate decision taking place on Thursday 19 June analysts predict that the base rate could fall to about 4% by the end of 2025.

Official figures from His Majesty’s Land Registry, published in May, show that UK house prices rose by 6.4% annually in March, up from 5.4% the month before. This was the fastest rate of annual growth in over two years as buyers raced to beat the stamp duty deadline. The average house price in the UK is now £268,250 after a rise of 1.6%, or £4,330, over the past year. Below we break down why this is the case and what it means for the UK property market going forward. Seasonal uptick for the market 2025 marks the fifth consecutive year in which asking prices have reached a record level in May, a time of year when the British property market is traditionally at its busiest. However, May’s monthly seasonal price increase was the lowest since 2016, as price growth was limited by the number of homes for sale, which stands at its highest level in a decade according to property database Rightmove. There are currently 13% more homes for sale than a year ago, and the average estate agent office currently has 35 unsold homes. As a result, the present property environment is more beneficial for buyers than sellers. The number of homes for sale is currently at a 10-year high, meaning buyers have plenty of choice and can shop around for their dream home or property investment. How changes to the stamp duty tax have impacted the latest house prices The UK property market has been more subdued than usual this spring, with lower demand from new buyers, after a busy first quarter of the year as buyers in England and Northern Ireland raced to beat the deadline for changes to stamp duty land tax. Now that the period of temporary stamp duty relief is over, first-time buyers are paying the property tax on homes worth more than £300,000, down from £425,000 previously. Meanwhile, home movers have seen the tax-free threshold drop from £250,000 to £125,000. That said, the number of sales is on the rise with home buyers returning to the market after the end of stamp duty relief and the Easter holidays. According to Zoopla, data shows that the number of sales agreed per estate agent at this time of year is increasing at the fastest rate for four years since the pandemic boom of 2021. This is due to a high number of homes for sale and improvements in mortgage rates and availability. How interest rate cuts have influenced the property market Some market analysts believe that the uptick in activity is a result of buyers waiting for the Bank of England’s most recent cut in interest rates. Policymakers at the central bank recently lowered rates by a quarter point to 4.25% and as a result there are more mortgage products with sub 4% rates, encouraging buyers to make offers. This coupled with positive earnings growth has outpaced broader inflation and has helped to steadily improve affordability for many buyers, supporting a 6% growth in sales agreed. Price growth varied across different UK cities Regional property price variations are likely for the rest of the year, with prices forecast to rise more rapidly in the North than the South. Savills expects growth of 5% in the North West, the North East, Scotland, Yorkshire and the Humber. Prices in the East of England and the South West are forecast to increase by 2.5%. House price increases also vary widely at a city level, from small price falls in Aberdeen, Brighton and Bournemouth to prices increasing by over 5% in Blackburn and Belfast, while the fastest-growing markets tend to be outside Southern England. Cities across the North West are registering the highest rates of price growth, as rising employment rates boosts demand and prices. Higher home values and rents in large cities like Manchester are pushing demand into adjacent and accessible areas, boosting house prices. Tailor my Property With UK property prices climbing again after a period of stagnation or decline in some areas, investing in property now before prices rise further could ensure capital appreciation over time. Tailor my Property has an extensive network of tax, property and investment professionals who can assist you with tailoring a strategy best suited to your unique property market goals. Get in touch today to find out more.

UK property prices climb thanks to lower interest rates and strong demand

Official figures from His Majesty’s Land Registry, published in May, show that UK house prices rose by 6.4% annually in March, up from 5.4% the month before.

The Bank of England has reduced its key interest rate from 4.5% to 4.25% in response to slowing domestic economic growth and uncertainty around the fallout from US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements. The latest news from the Bank was widely expected, with inflation cooling to 2.6% in the twelve months to March, and is the fourth cut since last August, but it came alongside a warning that the UK economy is expected to slow by a further 0.3% over the next three years. Are more cuts expected soon? Economists have varying projections for future rate cuts but some expect at least two further quarter-point cuts in borrowing costs this year. However some analysts warn that inflation risks, particularly from rising wages and energy prices, could limit the pace of potential cuts with some predicting that inflation will remain above the 2% target well into 2026. The UK and US negotiate new trade agreements following tariff fallout According to the Bank the latest decision to cut interest rates was influenced by current global tariff tensions and did not take into account the newly proposed deal between the British government and the United States, which was confirmed just hours later in a conjoined effort to avoid tariffs on certain goods in order to boost trade. As a result of the latest deal the UK has reduced a 27.5% charge on exports of cars and a 25% charge on steel and aluminium, in exchange for concessions in some sectors including agriculture. How do the cuts influence the property market? The Bank's base rate cuts have far-reaching consequences for financial and property markets, including mortgage rates offered by lenders, and are the Bank's main tool in trying to maintain the annual rate of inflation at, or close to, its target of 2%.The higher rates in recent years have meant that buyers are paying more to borrow money for things like mortgages and credit cards. In the UK around 600,000 homeowners have a mortgage that tracks the Bank's rate, so rates being cut will have an impact on monthly repayments and make life more affordable for many struggling to maintain or purchase homes in a stagnant domestic economy. The most recent UK inflation figures show prices rose 2.6% in the year to March, and the rate is expected to jump following a series of household bill increases at the start of April, including energy and water prices. How will mortgage rates be affected? The latest reduction in the Bank of England’s base rate will be good news for anyone looking to buy a new home and get a cheaper “fixed-rate” mortgage deal from a bank or lender, or for those remortgaging and looking for new deals after their fixed-rate term expires. Of the total number of fixed-rate deals around 1.6 million will end in 2025, meaning the latest drop in the Bank of England’s key rate will be good news for those hoping to find a new offer. Tailor my Property  Lower interest rates offer exciting opportunities for the UK property market, whether you’re a first time buyer or a seasoned property investor, now might be the time to make a move and grow your UK property portfolio. Tailor my Property has a network of expert finance and property professionals who can advise you to ensure you move in the right direction for your personal, financial and property goals. Get in touch today.

UK interest rates fall to 4.25% following the latest Bank of England cut

The Bank of England has reduced its key interest rate from 4.5% to 4.25% in response to slowing domestic economic growth and uncertainty around the fallout from US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcements.

Recent house price data shows that growth in the Northern regions of the UK has started to catch up with the historically stronger South, closing the gap on more expensive areas that seem to be reaching a period of plateau. According to the UK House Price Index’s latest data, prices rose by 8% in the North West and 7.9% in the North East in the year to February, while month-on-month they recorded increases of 0.7% and 0.4% respectively, bringing average prices to £211,977 in the North West and £160,452 in the North East. In contrast London prices increased by just 1.7% annually leading to an average price of £555,625 in the capital. Below we explore what is causing the gap to close. Northern cities offer great investment returns Popular Northern cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds have recently seen significant investment in infrastructure, culture, and technology, making the North a hub for higher education and business interests like media agencies, tech startups and financial services, attracting young talent and increasing housing demand from locals and internationals alike. These cities now offer a winning combination of lower house prices and higher rental yields compared to the South, making them popular with investors and landlords. Higher rental yields As an example of why the North appeals to buy-to-let investors, rents in the North East are cheaper than anywhere else in the country at around £695, while costing only around £109,072 to purchase on average. This gives the region the highest average rental yield in the UK of 7.65%. Meanwhile London offers the lowest gross yields in the UK at 4.93% on average, only 0.1% higher than three months ago. Major transport projects in the North Major infrastructure developments in the North promise a more connected and easy-to-access lifestyle. New transport opportunities like the HS2 and the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) aim to open up London and other Southern towns for workers and semi-digital nomads who can enjoy lower prices and better quality of life in the North while still being able to commute with convenience. Slowing house price growth in the South On the other end of the index London and much of the South East have experienced slowing growth, largely because they already had significantly higher property prices. With many Southern areas proving less affordable for buyers historically, especially those who are first-timers, and with price-to-earnings ratios in London being among the worst in Europe,  many people have chosen to migrate further North when it comes to both buying and renting. With higher mortgage rates, new regulations and low house price growth in recent years, rents in the South also appear to have reached an affordability ceiling and tenant demand is starting to dissipate. As a result Southern towns are now showing flat or negative price growth, especially in commuter belt areas that used to rely heavily on London-centric jobs. Property is still a strong investment in 2025  With US president Donald Trump’s tariffs currently reshaping the financial landscape and  stocks and shares investments taking a considerable knock, the UK property market is proving to be a safer and more stable investment option. UK house prices rose by 5.4% year-on-year in February 2025, indicating that the market is still seeing stable growth, and there are expectations that the Bank of England may soon need to cut interest rates which will lead to falling mortgage rates, making now a good time to explore potential property investments. Tailor my Property With several key factors currently influencing the UK property market it’s important to consult a professional before pursuing your next investment. Tailor my Property has a professional network of property, finance and investment professionals who can assist with strategies suited to your individual portfolio requirements. Enquire today to find out more.

Why the shrinking North-South UK property divide is good for investors

Recent house price data shows that growth in the Northern regions of the UK has started to catch up with the historically stronger South.

The Spring Statement has historically played a less significant role for the UK economy than that of the Autumn Budget, but this year Chancellor Rachel Reeves had plenty of eyes on her thanks to the government’s so-called ‘£22 billion black hole’, the weak economy and the impact of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Below we break down how the statement will impact the UK property market in 2025. Stamp duty land tax Despite many hopes that it would be delayed, stamp duty land tax reforms officially came into effect at the beginning of this month after a temporary reduction from the Sunak government in 2022. Starting from the beginning of April first time buyers will no longer receive the full relief for properties up to £425,000, as the threshold drops to £300,000, with a reduced relief for properties between £300,001 and £500,000 instead. For home movers the 0% stamp duty rate is now only applicable for properties up to £125,000, with a 2% rate for properties between £125,001 and £250,000. Meanwhile the higher stamp duty rates for more expensive properties remain unchanged. These changes mean that many home buyers will face higher tax costs, and to the disappointment of many in the market Reeves did not introduce any new or additional schemes to incentivise buyers. Labour’s house building policies In her Spring Statement speech Reeves hailed the impact of the government’s national planning policy framework reforms for boosting economic growth with house building at the centre of it all. According to the Office for Budget Responsibility house building is forecast to hit a 40-year high, with reforms to the planning system, mandatory housing targets for councils and green belt relaxations expected to boost the economy by £6.8 billion and help meet the government's target of 1.5 million new homes in England over the next five years. Many have doubted the viability of this promise due to scepticism around labour shortages in the construction sector and housebuilding slumping to a 12-year low. In an effort to stem this shortage in the building force Reeves announced a £600 million initiative to train 60,000 construction workers. Mortgage rates In another shake up for the market some major lenders are set to cut rates on mortgages as a result of turmoil from US President Donald Trump's tariff policy and expectations that UK interest rates could be further cut this year. The Bank of England’s main rate stands at 4.5% and was forecast to be reduced twice this year but the uncertainty created by US tariffs has increased the expectation to three cuts. Mortgage brokers predict that some mortgage rates may fall to as low as 3.79% in the coming weeks, with Barclays already cutting rates on some mortgages to below 4%. This marks the first ‘big six’ lender to enter the sub-4% fixed-rate market after similar announcements by some smaller lenders earlier this week. House prices According to the latest Halifax House Price Index the average UK house price experienced a slight dip in March, falling by £1,575 and bringing the typical value to £296,699 from £298,274 in February, a 0.5% decrease month-on-month. This dip was widely expected after an increase in demand and prices was registered in January as buyers rushed to beat the March stamp duty deadline, with that month registering more house sales than in January and February combined. With further Bank of England base rate cuts anticipated alongside positive wage growth, mortgage affordability should continue to improve and a modest rise in house prices is expected.  Why UK property is a strong investment in 2025  As the last week of financial market turmoil proves that stocks and shares can be a volatile investment, investors can always explore property as a safer and more traditionally reliable asset.  While the UK property market may experience normal ups and downs, forecasts predict that it will remain stable with potential for long-term appreciation thanks to infrastructure development, declining mortgage rates and a housing shortage in major cities leading to strong rental yields. Tailor my Property  With several factors influencing the UK property market it’s important to consult a professional before making your next move. Tailor my Property has a professional network of property, finance and investment professionals who can assist with strategies suited to your individual needs. Get in touch today to find out more.

How the UK Spring Statement and US tariffs will influence the 2025 property market

This year's Spring Budget focused on the economy's ‘£22 billion black hole’, the weak economy and the impact of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

Currently on track to become law before Parliament's summer recess in July, the Renters’ Rights Bill is the most significant reform of the private rented sector since the Housing Act in 1988, and has wide-ranging implications for landlords, tenants, investors and letting agents alike. Below we break down how the Bill is set to impact the rental market. The removal of no-fault evictions Once the Renters’ Rights Bill comes into effect, serving Section 8 notices will be the only way that landlords can evict tenants, removing no-fault evictions as a way of doing so. No-fault evictions occur when a landlord evicts a tenant without giving a specific reason, often through section 21 notices, and are possible even if the tenant was paying rent on time and following the terms of the tenancy agreement. Under the new Bill landlords have to provide a valid reason like non-payment of rent or a breach of the tenancy agreement if they want to evict a tenant. That said, landlords can still vacate the rental property in order to sell, move family in or do major renovations, they just can't do it within the first six months of a tenancy. Removing ‘rogue’ landlords from the market A key part of the Renters’ Reform Bill is the introduction of a national database of landlords and property agents which will name those who have committed breaches, making it easier to track problematic landlords. Additionally, landlords who are found in violation of the new rules or who engage in unethical practices will face punishment like substantial fines or even a ban from renting out properties. The introduction of a landlord ombudsman The Bill also introduces a new landlord ombudsman, offering a fair and impartial resolution service for rental property disputes. The new ombudsman will provide an independent service for complaints about issues ranging from unfair rent increases and illegal eviction attempts to maintenance and safety issues. If tenants are unable to resolve these issues directly with their landlord or agent, they will have access to the ombudsman service to mediate and make a final decision without having to go to court. Properties need to meet a certain standard The Bill also aims to strengthen regulations around property living conditions and maintenance, requiring landlords to keep their properties in safe and good repair. Local authorities will now have the power to enforce these set standards, and landlords who fail to comply could face fines, or in extreme cases, be blacklisted from renting out properties. Rent increases will be restricted Under the current system landlords can raise rent in several ways, including rent review clauses, renewing fixed-term tenancies, and mutual written agreements during the tenancy. However, with the abolition of fixed-term tenancies, Section 13 notices will now be the only way to raise rent and can only be served once per year. With the introduction of the new system rent increases must be in line with market conditions and can’t be ‘excessive’, meaning that landlords have to show that the new rent is ‘reasonable’ based on local market norms. Landlords also need to provide a valid reason for any rent increase, such as improvements in the property, changes in the local rental market, or rising costs, and tenants will have the right to challenge unreasonable increases. Tailor my Property Ultimately the new protections offered by the Bill mean that tenants will receive better treatment and enjoy healthier renting experiences, likely leading to more renters trusting the market and landlords, and becoming reliable long term tenants once settled in a property. If you’re a current landlord or looking to explore the buy-to-let market as an investor but aren’t sure how to navigate the changing market, Tailor my Property has a professional network of property, finance and investment professionals who can assist with strategies suited to your individual needs. Get in touch today to find out more.

UK Renters' Rights Bill set to transform the rental market

The Renters’ Rights Bill has wide-ranging implications for landlords, tenants, investors and letting agents alike.

Manchester has once again been named one of the top five UK cities for investors, leading the way in key areas of average total rent, the lowest number of rental vacancies, and a high percentage of the city’s population in the rental market. According to data from buy-to-let lender Aldermore, Manchester also tops the top five list with the best long term property price rises of all at 6.5% annual growth, offering rising value over time paired with the benefit of near guaranteed rental income. Voted the third best city in the world, Manchester offers a wide range of exceptional employment and educational opportunities, a thriving cultural scene, exciting growth projections and promising regeneration projects. Below we explain why investors should explore Manchester property in 2025. It’s a higher education hotspot With some of the UK’s most revered educational institutions located in Manchester, it’s no surprise that demand for rental property is high. Over 100,000 students from all over the globe are enrolled across the city, producing around 36,000 graduates every year. Research also indicates that around 46% of these graduates choose to stay in Manchester once they have completed their studies, creating a consistent flow of young professionals into the city. Employment opportunities Large businesses like Microsoft, Siemens, Amazon, Kellogg’s, Unilever, BBC and ITV all have prominent bases in the city, making Manchester a thriving business hub for workers from all over the world. With thousands of new jobs also being created as a result of regeneration efforts, demand for properties in the northern city continues to increase. High rental yields The average UK rental yield is 4.71%, while some of Manchester’s more popular areas achieve yields as high as 7.6%. The city also offers a consistent market of tenants, with 32% of locals being private renters compared to the national average of 23%. Manchester is continuing to experience immense rental growth according to the latest JLL research, which indicates that rents increased across the nation by 14%, with Manchester far exceeding this with 19.6% growth. Additionally, JLL predicts that the city will experience 19.3% further price growth and 21.6% rental growth by 2027, the highest forecasts across all UK cities. Property capital growth On top of having positive rental yields, Manchester properties are relatively cheap to purchase for buy-to-let investors. According to data from the Halifax Price Index the average property in Manchester costs £230,967, which is significantly cheaper than the average property in the UK and less than half of London’s average. That said, Zoopla has recorded year-on-year growth across the Manchester market of over 8% meaning the opportunity to buy property at lower prices could be over soon. Regeneration in the city As the UK’s second largest city region economy second only to London, Manchester has a GVA (Gross Value Added) of £74.85 billion, making it a major hub for investment. A £500 million town centre rebuild, currently one of the country’s biggest regeneration projects, is set to introduce a new cultural hub, public square, shops, community spaces and the building of more than 1,700 homes. These initiatives make the city an appealing option for renters hoping to enjoy quality of life while escaping the property prices of London and beyond. Good quality of life Manchester is beloved for its thriving local culture, offering everything from exciting nightlife to historical significance and a prominent sports scene,  with a new planned football stadium set to become the largest in the UK, overtaking Wembley Stadium’s capacity of 90,000. From young students and professionals to growing families, the city offers something for everyone, and more and more people are looking to call the city home. Tailor my property Buy-to-let property in Manchester offers investors an exciting opportunity to capitalise on low property prices and consistent rental yields. For those looking to learn more about the area’s thriving market and the options available to investors, Tailor My Property has an expert network of property, mortgage and finance professionals who are able to advise and assist with a wide range of queries.

Manchester offers promising property investment opportunities

Manchester has once again been named one of the top five UK cities for property investors.

The British housing market has experienced its strongest start in three years, with new sales up 12% year-on-year in January and the number of homes for sale 10% higher than a year ago according to property website Zoopla. With more homes available on the market there is also a surge in new people looking to buy, with demand for homes also 3% higher than the same time last year. Below we explore which factors are helping the UK property market enjoy a boom in activity. Stamp Duty Land Tax Last year’s autumn budget confirmed that the temporary reliefs in stamp duty land tax would come to an end in England and Northern Ireland in April 2025, meaning that certain buyers are rushing to complete transactions before the deadline passes and higher rates of stamp duty are imposed. According to Zoopla’s latest figures, first-time buyer demand jumped by more than a third in the months of November and December in the price brackets (between £300,000 and £625,000) where stamp duty will increase the most from April. Under the current rules, first-time buyers start paying stamp duty on purchases over £425,000 pounds, but this will fall to £300,000 on April 1. Other buyers currently start paying the tax on purchases over £250,000 and this will halve to £125,000 under the new rules. More houses available to purchase According to new year figures from property platform Rightmove, a record number of new sellers have come to the market since December - up 11% annually from last year. The number of buyers contacting agents during this period has also jumped 9%. This indicates that several sellers are now entering the market with a newfound confidence, providing buyers with fresh choice and increasing market activity. House price growth Recent data also indicates that the annual rate of house price inflation is currently at 2%, compared to -0.9% a year ago, indicating the highest level of price growth since April 2023. This means that the average house price in the UK now stands at £267,700, up £5,200 over 2024 with the number of homes for sale 10% higher than the same period last year. Lower mortgage rates At the latest meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee, the Bank of England decided to lower the base rate to 4.5%, from 4.75%. This followed several rate cuts in 2024 which means the base rate, which is used as a guide for interest rates on mortgages and other loans, has been reduced from the peak of 5.25%, and some lenders have started to introduce more competitive fixed-rate deals for buyers as a result. HSBC UK has reduced mortgage rates across its range of residential and buy-to-let mortgages by up to 0.47% for existing customers, and buy-to-let rates for those looking to remortgage to HSBC UK have been cut by up to 0.23%. Meanwhile, Skipton International has responded by reducing mortgage rates across its buy-to-let fixed rate range and adding a 3-year mortgage product at 5.89%. Tailor my Property  With a series of factors positively impacting the UK property market, and with the stamp duty deadline looming, now is the ideal time to move ahead with property investment plans in the UK. That said, individual lenders will set their own mortgage rates and terms so it’s recommended to shop around for the deal best suited to your personal needs and goals. Contact Tailor My Property t oday and connect with our expert network of financial and property professionals who can assist and advise as you explore and navigate these exciting mortgage and property opportunities.

The UK property market enjoys a strong start to 2025

The British housing market has experienced its strongest start in three years, with new sales up 12% year-on-year in January.

The milestone achievement of a child packing their bags and heading off to university will be special for any parent, but it can also be an opportunity to explore some financial planning opportunities by investing in a home for them whilst they are studying, potentially securing a long-term investment even after they’ve left. What are the benefits? As the owner, parents can choose the property’s location and quality, ensuring their child lives in a safe environment suited to their needs and preferences, and ultimately helping to ensure they will succeed in their higher education, which is an investment in and of itself. Compared to paying years of high student rents for properties owned by someone else, investing in a student property can be more cost-effective over the course of a degree, especially if you can rent out extra rooms to other students. Student properties in the UK have been offering incredible returns for investors, often times better returns than standard lets, and recent research by Paragon Bank found that student buy-to-lets can offer yields as much as 18% higher than on standard rental homes. What to consider? There are multiple strategies for parents looking to become student property owners, and the short term option would be to buy a one-bed for only their child, which they can sell on after they leave university. That said, this is not the recommended route for parents hoping to see more returns. If the owners are planning to only keep the property while their child is at university, the costs associated with buying, maintaining and selling will likely eat into the returns. The buying and selling costs include legal and estate agent fees, surveys, stamp duty and funds to refurbish, which means that buying a property for a short period doesn't make financial sense, and having a long term plan would benefit the property owners more. Financially it would make more sense to buy a larger property and rent out the other rooms to additional students, generating a rental income which could cover the mortgage payments and provide additional returns. Parents with a longer-term interest in being a landlord could plan to keep the property after their child is no longer studying, meaning they get a long-term income and are more likely to benefit from house price increases when they do come to sell years later.   In fact, in many instances it can be a completely hands-off investment, as plenty of student accommodation has its own attached management company, meaning investors will have no landlord duties. Student housing attracts a consistent stream of tenants As the demand for higher education continues to increase the demand for student housing is growing alongside a shortage in rental properties available. University property owners will generally benefit from a predictable tenant cycle, so there’s less chance of risks like long void periods. With university students typically signing fixed-term contracts for an entire academic year if not longer, landlords can enjoy a consistent stream of income, often backed by other parental guarantors supporting their children. Student property provides higher rental yields According to a study by Savills, purpose-built student accommodation has consistently outperformed other sectors in the UK property market, delivering net yields ranging from 4.5% to 6.5% in recent years. Investment in the sector reached £3.5 billion in 2024, marking a 13% increase from 2023, and over the past five years, the sector’s annual investment volumes have averaged £4.9 billion, demonstrating its resilience despite ongoing market challenges. Student accommodation apartments are also generally smaller, so are occasionally available at a much more affordable rate, and the demand for quality student accommodation in prime locations near universities allows landlords to charge higher rental rates if they wish, maximising the potential rental yield. University cities like Liverpool, Manchester, Cardiff and Edinburgh are among those that are particularly high in demand, offering high rental yields thanks to the respectable universities associated geographically, along with thriving cultural scenes and cost-friendly living for students and young professionals both internationally and from the UK. Tailor my Property  Overall, buying and managing student property is not only a strategic way to diversify an investment and property portfolio, it also offers parents a means of supporting and safeguarding their children during a potentially difficult and very fundamental period of their young lives. Tailor my Property has a network of property, tax and financial professionals who can assist with specific property and investment goals in the student sector. Get in touch today to find out how you can capitalise on UK student property potential in 2025.

The benefits of buying student accommodation for your children

Student properties in the UK have been offering incredible returns for investors.

With 2024 proving more positive for the UK property market than many experts initially predicted, 2025 is primed to offer buyers, sellers and investors incredible opportunities, with widespread predictions of a ‘buyer’s market’ for house hunters in the year ahead due to increased property availability. 2025 will be a ‘buyer’s market’, but what does this mean? According to property company Hamptons, transaction numbers for the UK market are expected to increase this year as a result of first-time buyers, who accounted for a record 31% of all sales in 2024. With new buyers currently facing less competition compared to the pandemic-era markets, they also have a slightly larger selection to choose from, allowing them to buy the right property at the right price point. That said, upcoming changes to stamp duty land tax in April could also mean the current heightened transaction numbers are inflated as a result of a potential rush to buy property before the changes come into effect. Stamp duty land tax Property market professionals are expecting to see the number of house sales increase over the next few months as buyers try to finalise purchases ahead of the stamp duty changes scheduled for April. Changes to the current stamp duty thresholds will see house buyers in England and Northern Ireland start paying stamp duty on properties over £125,000, instead of over £250,000, the current threshold. First-time buyers currently pay no stamp duty on homes up to £425,000, but this will drop to £300,000 in April. As a result, first-time buyer activity is expected to see a boom as buyers rush to finalise purchases before the deadline. That said, it’s worth noting that most transactions can take several weeks if not months to finalise, and moving ahead soon is recommended for anyone hoping to close before the new thresholds kick in. House prices are still on the rise According to the Nationwide house price index, house prices ended 2024 at 4.7% higher than at the start of the year, meaning that the average home in the UK cost £269,426 at the end of December. Additionally, house prices are forecast to rise by 3% across Britain in 2025, followed by 3.5% in 2026 and 2.5% in 2027, according to Hamptons. House prices have been following an upward trajectory in recent months due to a drop in mortgage rates, rising wages and an easing of price inflation, which ultimately puts less pressure on buyer’s wallets. Dropping interest rates The downward direction of mortgage rates in recent months has been a significant force influencing buyer sentiment, with decreased monthly mortgage costs inspiring improved confidence amongst prospective buyers, prompting the moderate house price growth and increased numbers of transactions the market has enjoyed over the past few months. Market analysts are widely predicting that the Bank of England will further cut interest rates throughout the year, possibly as early as next month, allowing lenders to cut the cost of new fixed mortgage deals. In fact, experts are now predicting that the Bank of England will cut rates three times by the end of 2025. This, along with potentially rising wages, should improve housing affordability in 2025. Tailor my Property With conditions set up to allow the UK property market to flourish in 2025, there are certain opportunities primed for property investors to explore further, particularly before the stamp duty land tax deadline arrives. Tailor my Property has an extensive network of tax, property and investment professionals who can assist you with tailoring a strategy best suited to your unique property market aspirations.

2025 looks bright for the UK property market

2025 is primed to offer buyers, sellers and investors incredible opportunities.

Despite a number of ups and downs throughout the year, 2024 turned out better than most expected for the UK property market. Inflation was near, or at, target, for much of the year, and the Bank of England started its interest rate cutting cycle, creating positive momentum that will flow over into the new year. Below are some of our UK property market predictions for 2025. House prices are set to rise According to forecasts from property platform Rightmove, house prices across Great Britain are set to rise in 2025. Rightmove predicts that national average asking prices will increase by 4% in 2024, their largest prediction for price growth since 2021. The property platform expects that the number of homes for sale will remain high next year, anticipating a higher number of around 1.15 million transactions in 2025. Mortgage rate reductions in 2025 According to Rightmove the average five-year and two-year fixed mortgage rates are likely to be around 4% by the end of next year, based on current market trends. This is lower than the current 4.8% and 5.08% for the five-year and two-year fixed rates respectively, and will likely help improve affordability and further boost consumer confidence. Changes to mortgage rates are difficult to predict because they are greatly dependent on the impact of a wide variety of unpredictable factors, including global financial markets, the cost-of-living crisis, geo-political tensions and inflation. Stamp duty land tax In September 2022, the Government announced a temporary increase to the thresholds above which stamp duty land tax must be paid. The temporary increase is due to end on 31 March 2025, meaning the market is likely to see a particularly busy first three months of the year as first-time buyers, home-movers and investors all try to complete planned purchases and avoid higher taxes. While this date might seem far away, buyers and sellers alike should note that an average residential property transaction takes between 12 and 16 weeks to complete, and could take even longer. From 31 March 2025 the stamp duty rates on a standard residential purchase of a freehold property for a UK resident will be 2% above £125,000 and up to £250,000, 5% above £250,000 and up to £925,000, 10% above £925,000 and up to £1,500,000, and 12% above £1,500,000. By completing the transaction before the stamp duty changes come into effect, a buyer can save a significant £2,500, meaning that it may be worthwhile for residential buyers to bring forward their property plans and take advantage of the current stamp duty rates before the increase takes effect. Rent Most property experts predict that the supply and demand imbalance across the rental market will persist in 2025, with rents expected to continue rising throughout the year, but at a slower rate and more in-line with the long-run average. Demand for rental homes has soared since 2020, consistently pushing up average asking rents. Property platform Zoopla found that between 2021 and 2024 average UK rents increased by 27%, with wages only increasing by 19% during the same period. According to their data, the imbalance between demand and supply of rental properties has narrowed, but at the end of 2024 the number of available rentals was still 18% lower than before the Covid-19 pandemic. This means that landlords advertising properties to rent in the new year will need to find a balance between growth that reflects their rising costs and what tenants can afford, but that rental properties are still providing consistent returns on the investment. Good regions to explore for investment in 2025 Below are some of the key areas worth exploring for property investment in the UK. Manchester  boasts a thriving economic landscape, a growing population of young professionals, and significant investments in major infrastructure. It has one of the biggest student campuses in Europe and specific areas like the city centre, Salford Quays, and MediaCity offer good rental yields and strong potential for capital growth. Liverpool has undergone substantial regeneration in recent years, making it an appealing choice for property investors. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, some top universities, and many job opportunities. Edinburgh  is recognised as one of the most desirable places to buy property in the UK. This Scottish capital city attracts a significant number of young professionals and students and its strong rental demand and limited supply have contributed to increasing rent levels and high rental yields. Birmingham is a thriving midlands city with a major business sector and excellent transport links. The city's ongoing redevelopment includes the HS2 station, which is expected to drive rental demand thanks to the increased accessibility it offers to the region and other economic hubs. Tailor my property As we usher in 2025 the UK property market is primed to offer buyers new opportunities to invest in property and explore new markets. For those looking to engage with the UK property market, or take advantage before the stamp duty tax changes take effect, Tailor My Property has an expert network of property, mortgage and finance professionals who are able to advise and assist with a wide range of specialist queries. Get in touch today to find out more.

UK property market predictions for 2025

2025 offers property investors many exciting opportunities.

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